Ken Block, a professional rally driver and YouTube star, died in a snowmobile accident on Monday at age 55, as announced by his team, Hoonigan Racing.
They stated, “Ken was a visionary, a pioneer, and an icon. Most importantly, he was a father and husband. He will be deeply missed. Please respect the family’s privacy as they grieve.”
The incident occurred at 2 p.m. in Wasatch County, Utah, according to the Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office. Block was riding a snowmobile down a steep slope when it overturned and landed on him. Despite being with a group, he was alone at the time of the accident. He was pronounced dead at the scene from the injuries sustained.
The State Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the official cause of death. The Sheriff’s Office expressed their sorrow, stating, “We are saddened by the loss of Kenneth. Our hearts go out to his family and friends.”
Before his rally driving career, Block co-founded DC Shoes in 1994, a brand that became iconic in skateboarding apparel. He began rallying in 2005 and made his debut in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) in Mexico two years later. Throughout his career, he competed in 25 WRC events and won five X Games medals in RallyCross between 2006 and 2015.
The motorsports community is mourning his loss. Belgian rally driver Thierry Neuville expressed his condolences, saying, “Shocked and saddened by the passing of a true icon.
A passionate racer and pioneer who inspired many. Rest in peace, buddy. My sympathies to his family and friends.” Ex-Formula One driver Jenson Button also paid tribute, stating, “In shock at the passing of Ken Block.
Such a talent who did so much for our sport. He was a true visionary with a unique style and infectious smile. Today, our sport lost one of the best, but more importantly, a great man.”
Block gained additional fame through his Gymkhana YouTube series, where he performed elaborate driving stunts and drifts in various locations worldwide. The series garnered hundreds of millions of views, solidifying his status as a motorsport legend.
Ken Block is survived by his wife, Lucy, and their three children.